The Top Preschools in Westchester
Back to school is a busy time, but for parents also caring for very young children it can be even more hectic if they aren’t attending preschool. Enrolling young kids in preschool is highly beneficial for their early social, cognitive and emotional development in a multitude of ways, but it’s also a plus for busy parents who work or need more time in the day to check off the endless items in their to-do lists. It’s a win/win all around, especially since it will prepare them for “big kid school” when the time comes.
If you are thinking of signing your little one up for early educational adventures, consider the excellent Westchester preschool programs below.
A Child’s Dream, LLC
10 Mill Road, New Rochelle
914-633-4332
A Child’s Dream is a learning space that offers early childhood education to children ages 2-5. They provide a nurturing environment full of energy with an interest in stimulating young minds. Throughout the year they have many school wide activities such as trick or treating, holiday grab bag, a family holiday dinner, an egg hunt, end of year celebration and many more. They pride themselves in their family-like community and the development of each child’s social, emotional, physical and cognitive skills. The Schools Director, Tiffany Amaya, has received many awards over the years, including Best Preschool, Business Hall of Fame two years in a row and Most Trusted Preschool Learning Program. The school also offers enrichment classes and summer camp.
All Aboard Childcare Education Centers
255 N. Highland Avenue, Ossining
914-923-1700
400 Columbus Avenue, Valhalla
914-741-1500
jenk@allabcc.com
All Aboard is a family owned and operated educational childcare facility since 1996. Their goal to develop the whole child is connected to a large array of learning opportunities. The Pre-K program is designed to enhance school readiness by incorporating New York State Pre-Kindergarten Learning Standards with an enriched emergent curriculum and “play to learn philosophy.” This is accomplished through intentional planning, instruction and individual exploration in the domains of social/emotional, self-help, language development, motor development, pre-math, and higher level and critical thinking. Each day is designed to be exciting, enriched, and fun. Included are nutritious meals and an array of enrichment activities. All Aboard is open 7 am – 6 pm 5 days per week.
Ann and Andy Childcare
2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford
914-592-3027
Each child is considered first as an individual and then as a member of the group. Regularly planned group activities meet the natural, physical, emotional, and cognitive needs of children at play. The staff is carefully trained to promote a positive environment and to keep a balanced routine that does not stress or overstimulate children. Ann & Andy’s provides childcare to children ages 2 months to 14 years old offering an infant, toddler, and preschool program, as well as a before and after school program for school aged children. They also offer a 9 week summer camp with acres of adventure. They have a flexible schedule that offers part time and full time care, hot meals, and age appropriate trips.
The Chapel School
172 White Plains Road, Bronxville
914-337-3202 x1008
mbutler@thechapelschool.org
The Chapel School’s award-winning, Accredited Preschool Program provides a safe, nurturing, inclusive Christ-centered environment where children experience a multi-sensory, developmentally-appropriate curriculum. Children build social, emotional, communication, fine and gross motor skills while engaging in Godly Play, worship, sharing, music, story time and outdoor play. Two-Day 2s have a 5:1 Student:Teacher Ratio, and Five-AM 3s, PreK 4s (-1:00) and JuniorK 4s (-2:15) have a 7:1 Student:Teacher Ratio. Program focus for 3s grows into letter and literacy exposure, name recognition, purpose, cooperation and artistic impression, while 4s engage in science experiments, math concepts, handwriting and phonetic connections. JuniorK 4s also enjoy an embedded enrichment program that includes sign language, augmented science explorations, yoga, dramatic expression, cooking and service learning.
The Early Childhood Center at Sarah Lawrence College
1 Mead Way, Bronxville
914-395-2353
ecc@sarahlawrence.edu
The Early Childhood Center (ECC) at Sarah Lawrence College is a research-backed, play-based lab school that has served as a national model of child-centered education for over 50 years. The foundation for lifelong learning is built during the critical early years of childhood. At the Early Childhood Center, they believe that children are the makers of their own meaning. Modeled on Sarah Lawrence College’s progressive pedagogy, the ECC also provides a setting for observation and research for Sarah Lawrence students studying child development and teaching. The ECC offers a twos and parent program, morning classes for 3- and 4-year-olds, and a full-day program for kindergarteners ages 5-6. Newly added is a kindergarten bridge program. Classes are led by masters-level lead teachers and supported by undergraduate and graduate students in the College.
Forest Preschool at Rye Nature Center
873 Boston Post Rd, Rye
914-967-5150
info@ryenaturecenter.org
Friends of Rye Nature Center’s Forest Preschool fosters a deep and lasting connection to nature in young children. Inspired by the Swiss concept of forest kindergartens, their curriculum emphasizes experiential learning in a natural outdoor setting, with over 90% of class time spent outside, year-round. This unique program nurtures curiosity and independence in children ages 3.5 and up, offering a hands-on education shaped by the surrounding forest. Their educators guide students as they explore, learn, and grow in this immersive environment. Registration for the 2025-2026 school year opens online on Wednesday, October 30 at 10:00 a.m.
The French-American School of New York
111 Larchmont Avenue, Larchmont
914-250-0401
admissions@fasny.org
The French-American School of New York’s bilingual preschool program begins at 3 years old with an emphasis on language acquisition. An innovative approach is focused on values of respect, empathy, and positivity, centered on learning, continuous progress, and the well-being of students. The development of fine and gross motor skills is targeted through activities that are thematic and connect to the student’s developmental milestones. Through play, students learn skills and investigate problems, they develop solutions and build their independence skills. As they grow, students are offered the opportunity to participate in either the French-American Program or the International Program, which begins in grade 1. Regardless of program choice, at FASNY, the pedagogical approach is thoughtful, age-appropriate, organized, and focused on academic excellence and student development.
German International School New York (GISNY)
50 Partridge Road, White Plains
914-948-6513
admissions@gisny.org
Expand your child’s world at German International School New York (GISNY). As an independent, bilingual Pre-K through Grade 12 college preparatory school, GISNY offers both expats and locals exceptional preparation for the future. Embracing a German-inspired, internationally minded approach, GISNY encourages students to experiment, collaborate, create, and think critically while building a strong bilingual foundation. The close-knit community feels like an extended family, nurturing both mind and heart. Located just outside New York City, the beautiful campus provides wide open green spaces for exploration and play. The benefits of bilingual education at GISNY are unmatched.
Hudson Country Montessori School
340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle
914-636-6202
info@hudsoncountry.org
Established in 1972, Hudson Country Montessori School values each child’s individuality. The school believes every child deserves a nurturing and supportive education. With a highly-trained faculty, HCMS inspires a love of learning, emphasizing the human potential and the power of quality education. Children are guided through the Montessori curriculum at their own pace under the supervision of certified professional Montessori teachers. This environment fosters concentration, self-reliance, and freedom of movement, allowing for both individual and cooperative work. HCMS nurtures compassion, critical-thinking, leadership, and respect for others. Serving toddlers (18 months) through 8th grade, the private co-educational school offers flexible scheduling, full and half-day sessions, and extended hours from 7:30am-6:00pm. Schedule a private tour for more.
Immaculate Heart of Mary School
201 Boulevard, Scarsdale
914-723-5608
info@ihmscarsdale.org
The goal of the IHM Pre-K program is to plant the seeds of positive self-concept, respect for people and the things that surround us, the ability for self-regulation and the love of learning. Their curriculum is rich with hands-on science experiments, pre-reader exercises, mathematical concepts, creative arts, structured activities, play, social interactions, religious instruction, and social development. Above all, their Pre-K children learn about God and the importance of loving one another. Half and full day programs are available for Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4. IHM offers before school care and an extended day program for all students as well as a wide range of after school clubs and activities to choose from.
Liberty Montessori Schools
155 Beechmont Dr., New Rochelle
914-636-3461
631 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck
914-777-1382
Liberty has 2 wonderful locations, an amazing waterfront facility in Mamaroneck and the other nestled in a beautiful neighborhood in New Rochelle. Liberty offers programs for toddlers to Grade 3 with an updated enrichment curriculum that incorporates special music programs. Liberty’s unique curriculum includes their special Science programs leading advanced students to a Challenger Program with special multilingual programs in Chinese, French, German, Spanish and Japanese. Liberty’s school director, Dr. Jagoda wanted to create an ideal learning environment for all children just as she did for her own. She operates the two state-of-the-art Montessori facilities that have become a “home away from home” for thousands of students from around the world. A personal tour of the facility will offer even more details about the Liberty Montessori environment.
Mazel Tots Early Childhood Program
At Scarsdale Synagogue Temples Tremont and Emanu-El
2 Ogden Road, Scarsdale
914-723-3001
sstte.org
Mazel Tots is a warm and stimulating environment, which encourages children’s curiosity and helps them to grow socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. Thanks to a warm and nurturing staff, children are guided through a curriculum filled with a variety of child-centered and developmentally appropriate activities that are safe, fun and friendly. The children’s spiritual growth will be enriched by the study of Jewish holidays, traditions and family values. There are special activities including sports, games, music, creative movement, sign language, nature, yoga, karate, science, art and more. Children love the two beautiful playgrounds, full-size play houses and children’s garden. There is also a fully equipped indoor play space. Mazel Tots serves children from 18 months until Kindergarten!
Montessori School of Pelham
1415 Pelhamdale Ave, Pelham Manor
914-738-1127
Montessori School of Pelham works to build a sense of community, collegiality, and a learning environment where children engage in social skills, practical life skills, literacy, math, art, science, music, yoga and creative thinking. The school follows the principles of Maria Montessori where children receive personalized attention in small class sizes to develop at their own pace. Developing confidence and a love of learning is the hallmark of Montessori education, along with providing a nurturing atmosphere where children develop independence, self-esteem an a love of learning. They become competent, confident, content and at peace with themselves and the world. Registration for 2024-25 (toddler class, ages 2-3; Montessori classes, ages 3-6). Call for a personal tour.
Rye Y Nursery School in Mamaroneck
122 Fenimore Rd., Mamaroneck
914-967-6363, x207
At the Rye Y Nursery School, children learn foundational skills through play-based learning that introduces basic concepts like numbers, letters, colors and shapes in a fun and engaging curriculum. Children enjoy indoor and outdoor recreation, arts and crafts, games, sports, story time, STEM activities, healthy snacks and more. They offer a toddler program for ages 18-35 months and pre-school for ages 3-5. Families may choose between a morning or afternoon program with 3, 4 or 5-day options. The Rye Y Nursery School is led by a team of qualified professionals selected for their experience, strong character, maturity, enthusiasm and commitment to Y values. They pride themselves on staff retention. Need-based financial aid is available through the Y Cares program.
Whitby School
969 Lake Avenue Greenwich CT
203-302-3900
admissions@whitbyschool.org
Whitby Montessori Children’s House (WMCH) is accredited by the American Montessori Society (AMS) and is one of the few fully accredited schools in Westchester-Fairfield. WMCH students continue their educational journey in Whitby’s Grade 1-8 IB program. Current research confirms that the first years of life are crucial in a child’s brain development. This is when children have the greatest capacity and appetite for learning. Their entire program seeks to support young children (and their families) as they become lifelong learners. WMCH is explicitly designed to foster social and cognitive development and to lay the foundation for learning in multiple academic areas. Different classroom learning sections thoughtfully encourage children to explore practical life activities, sensorial experiences, math, language, culture, and science.
Tig & Peach
play@tigandpeach.com
914-999-8080
Tig & Peach is the coolest place your kid could have imagined. As a three-time “Best of Westchester” award-winner for its thoughtfully designed, state-of-the-art play space, Tig & Peach is a place for children to play, learn, and grow. Enjoy no-reservation-required open play 7-days a week, fun-filled classes and camps all year long, immersive enrichment programs, Instagram-worthy birthday parties, a highly-curated retail shop, membership discounts, franchising opportunities, and so much more. Stop by your new playroom away from home in Pelham or Rye and join this peachy community.
World Cup Nursery School & Kindergarten
160 Joan Corwin Way, Chappaqua
914-238-9267
worldcupnurseryschool.com
mail@worldcupschools.com
World Cup has built a strong reputation for excellence in early childhood education, thanks to its dedicated teachers who stay current with innovative learning approaches. Students engage in challenges within a fun, safe, and nurturing play-based environment, fostering self-confidence, discipline, and self-esteem. The program benefits from excellent teacher-to-child ratios, special guests, music with Kenny Green, theme days, and creative movement activities. Children enjoy access to two outdoor playgrounds, an indoor bike track, and gymnastics instruction from USAG-safety-certified instructors. Additionally, both full and partial-day programs are offered, enrichment programs, and before and after care ensuring flexibility to meet the needs of students and families while providing a comprehensive educational experience.
